Mumbai: Bhushan Gagrani, the chief of the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC), conducted an unannounced inspection of the ongoing pre-monsoon cleaning operations at the Mithi and Vakola rivers on Thursday.
The inspection aimed to assess the progress of desilting and river widening works, as well as the construction of protective walls along the rivers, starting from the Mithi river at Bandra Kurla Complex. Officials reported that the work of widening the Mithi on the southern side has been delayed due to ongoing legal proceedings concerning construction activities in the area. Gagrani instructed officials to expedite the process and remove any constructions upon obtaining court orders, ensuring the rehabilitation of eligible residents after verifying their eligibility.
The inspection comes amidst mounting criticism from various political parties, all of whom have raised concerns about the sluggish pace of pre-monsoon clean-up efforts, attributing it to election duties assigned to civic staff. BJP MLA Ashish Shelar, during his second visit this week to nullah cleaning sites in the western suburbs, questioned the auditing status of the private dumping ground in Vasai, where silt from various nullahs is collected. The scrutiny of the Mithi river cleanup underscores the significance of efficient and timely execution of pre-monsoon preparations in Mumbai, a city prone to waterlogging and flooding during the monsoon season. The BMC’s efforts to maintain the city’s drainage systems and waterways are essential for safeguarding public infrastructure and mitigating the impact of heavy rainfall on residents.
However, the criticism from political quarters highlights the need for greater transparency and accountability in municipal operations, especially during critical phases like pre-monsoon preparations. As Mumbai gears up for the upcoming monsoon season, the BMC must address concerns raised by stakeholders and ensure that cleanup efforts proceed without hindrance to effectively tackle potential flood risks. The inspection by BMC Chief Bhushan Gagrani signals a commitment to addressing these concerns and ensuring that the city’s infrastructure is adequately prepared to withstand the challenges posed by the monsoon.
